If not treated properly this can cause all kinds of issues including mould (Image: Getty )
As autumn approaches, the temperatures start to drop, and the weather gets wetter, homeowners in the UK are being advised to put bowls of salt on their windowsills. This easy hack can help soak up moisture, stopping condensation and mould from developing in homes, especially in damp or humid situations.
The Met Office confirms that the UK’s weather is “living up to expectations for an unsettled autumnal start”. The most recent 10-day forecast reveals a period dominated by low pressure, frequent showers, and the risk of heavy downpours and strong winds.
A spokesperson said: “While there are brief interludes of drier and brighter weather, the overall theme is one of continued volatility, with little sign of prolonged settled conditions on the horizon… Throughout the period, temperatures are expected to be around average, perhaps a little below at times, especially during spells of unsettled weather.”
Salt works as a natural moisture absorber, which means it pulls water vapor from the air. If you notice the salt starting to clump or the bowl getting damp, it’s time to swap it out for some fresh salt.
This method is a straightforward, low-effort way to reduce humidity and is supported by the science of salt’s hygroscopic properties, reports Surrey Live.
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Hygroscopic refers to a substance that absorbs and retains moisture from its surroundings, much like a kitchen towel mops up a spill. Using salt to combat condensation in your home is incredibly straightforward. Simply grab a shallow dish, jar, or any small container, and fill it with salt.
Position the dish on any windowsill where condensation is problematic. Monitor it and replace the salt when necessary. The salt will absorb moisture and start to clump together, becoming damp. When this happens, get rid of the old salt and replenish with fresh salt.
By reducing the humidity levels around the window, you can decrease the amount of condensation that forms when warm indoor air meets the cold glass. Less condensation results in a drier environment, which helps prevent mould growth, a common problem in humid conditions.
Salt begins to absorb moisture readily when the humidity is high, typically over 74%. If you have larger windows or areas with a lot of moisture, you may need a bigger dish of salt. While the salt dish method is effective for minor moisture problems, it’s even more beneficial when used in conjunction with proper ventilation to further reduce indoor humidity.
If you don’t want to use up any of your salt you normally keep in your kitchen, there are alternative options. For example, you can always buy a disposable dehumidifier. These tend to contain crystals designed to absorb moisture from the air.
Condensation can be a nuisance, spark health concerns and become costly. (Image: Getty)
Why is condensation an issue?
Condensation occurs when warm, humid air encounters a cold surface. It is common in homes, especially during the colder months, when the warm, moist air inside meets the cold exterior walls and windows. If not dealt with, this excess moisture can encourage mould growth, leading to dampness and decay.
Condensation creates a damp environment conducive to mould growth. Mould can damage property and pose serious health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems.
Mould spores can trigger or exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. They can also cause respiratory infections, and some individuals may experience allergic reactions, headaches, nausea, or skin rashes. Dampness and mould can also have a negative impact on the immune system, with those at risk due to pre-existing health conditions being particularly vulnerable.
The additional moisture can also damage a home’s interior, including wood and plaster, resulting in rot, peeling paint, and structural damage that requires expensive repairs. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause wood to warp, rot, and break down, potentially compromising the structure.
The cheap essential could be the secret to keeping windows dry this autumn. (Image: Getty)
Water-absorbent materials, such as plasterboard, can also be damaged. The development of mould is usually accompanied by a damp, musty smell.
A 2024 report by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government disclosed that a staggering 6.5 million households, equating to around 23% of all UK homes, could be plagued by damp and mould in the forthcoming years.
The cost of eradicating damp and mould is also steep, with MyJobQuote suggesting that minor condensation repairs for double-glazed windows could cost between £300 and £500.
What other methods can prevent condensation apart from salt?
Condensation can also be prevented by reducing indoor humidity using a plug-in dehumidifier, improving home ventilation by slightly opening windows and utilising extractor fans, or insulating surfaces to maintain their warmth, such as installing double glazing. Other moisture absorbers, like silica gel or even cat litter in a sock, can prove beneficial.
Ensure the fans in your kitchen and bathroom are switched on while you’re cooking or showering, and keep them running afterwards. If possible, use a vented tumble dryer or hang your clothes outside to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home. Using lids on pots whilst cooking can help contain steam and prevent it from dispersing into the air.